The family of deceased 16-year old Esmeralda Richiez announced the change of defense. The new lawyer explained the decision comes because the past defense leaked information that could compromise the case.
The family chose Silvestre Antonio Rodríguez to head the defense of the late teenager Esmeralda Richiez. The family says many of these elements that were leaked can damage the results of the investigation and the outcome of the case. Rodríguez, reportedly, is a relative of the father of the deceased. Richiez was found dead in the bathroom of her home on Monday, 13 February. She reportedly died due to an acute hemorrhage.
Rodríguez headed a press conference to make the announcement. He said that the accused 35-year old professor John Kelly Martinez was ordered to serve a year pre-trial detention. John Kelly Martínez was professor of mathematics and physical education to the deceased student.
The lawyer said that the family will not request that Esmeralda’s remains be exhumed, unless it is unavoidable, according to what was discussed with the Public Prosecutor’s Office. “The first thing the family wants is for that girl to rest in peace. Since she died in such a tragic and violent way, I think it is our responsibility to give her and her family some peace and tranquility.”
Pathologist Sergio Sarita Valdez understands that the autopsy carried out by the Inacif is incomplete. He did reveal in an interview with Francisco Tavarez (El Democrata) that the findings of the autopsy showed that the teenager was not pregnant.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Education, now under Education Minister Angel Hernandez says that four teachers have been removed since he was named in August 2022.
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Listin Diario
Esta Noche con Mariasela
Listin Diario
Francisco Tavarez – El Democrata
Esta Noche con Mariasela
23 February 2023